Lauren Simone Blogs — west indian social club

Dr. Melissa-Sue John attended the Grand Opening of the Caribbean Heritage Museum on October 18, 2025, at the West Indian Social Club in Hartford, CT. Organized by the Friendship Group of Hartford, the event celebrated the rich history and cultural impact of the Caribbean on both the United States and Connecticut. The museum’s exhibits featured themes such as trade, migration, the West Indian Federation, and Marcus Garvey’s legacy. The opening attracted community leaders, including the Mayor of Windsor, along with authors, publishers, and professors. Dr. John praised the exhibit’s quality and historical depth and offered thoughtful recommendations to enhance the visitor experience—such as adding a donation box, posting clear hours, collecting cultural artifacts, and beautifying the building with a Caribbean mural. She described the museum as a vital space for preserving and celebrating Caribbean identity, resilience, and contribution to American society.